AN EXPLORATION OF HAFTARAH THROUGH ART AND HISTORY
"A fascinating and innovative work of Judaic art that draws upon and enhances the Jewish miniature art of former generations."
Shalom Sabar
Primo Levi Fellow at the Center for Advanced Judaic Studies, University of Pennsylvania
Professor at Hebrew University, Mandel Institute of Jewish Studies
About Laya Crust
Laya Crust is a Toronto soferet, visual artist, and lecturer. She studied design and Jewish thought at the University of Manitoba and continued her art studies at OCAD and The Three Schools of Art, in Toronto. She is recognized for her rigorous research into her subject matter, desire for excellence, and detailed imagery.
Among her other artworks, in 2010 Laya was commissioned to scribe and illustrate a kosher Megillat Esther. The scroll, illustrated with 32 paintings in 15th Century Persian court style, has been exhibited internationally, including in The Kelly Library, University of Toronto, and the Wolfson Museum in Jersusalem.
Laya frequently gives dvrei Torah at synagogues and leads workshops integrating craft with Jewish thought and text at schools and organizations.
About ILLUMINATIONS
The Bible, which ranks as the most popular book of all time comes alive in this exciting publication. Artist Laya Crust has interpreted 82 stories from the Bible and created an innovative painting for each one. The chosen stories, called haftarot, are presented as an odyssey through world history as experienced by the Jewish people. The imagery gives stunning insight to a rich cultural heritage. This lavishly illustrated book is a thoroughly enjoyable exploration for students, art fans, and anyone who loves the Bible and its many stories.
Sample Pages
Testimonials
"Laya Crust's detailed and studied analyses of the Haftarot come through in her inspired art. Her paintings and words give refreshing and scholarly insights to the readings of the Bible.
Rabbi Philip Scheim
Rabbi Emeritus, Beth David B'nai Israel Beth Am
Beth David’s
Illuminated
Haftarah Scroll
